Every year, Japan outdoes itself with stunning winter illuminations and light displays including the gorgeous frozen waterfalls in Aomori prefecture. If you’re looking for another winter wonderland to explore, don’t miss the annual Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival up in Hokkaido.
View this post on Instagram
This year, the festival takes place from Saturday January 27 to Sunday February 25. Now in its 46th year, the festival is open from 10am to 8pm, with a colourful light up between 4.30pm and 8pm.
The festival is divided into several zones including the ice shrine, ice kitchen, and the jaw-dropping ice tunnel leading to a gorgeous ice chandelier. Plus, you can also stop by one of the many onsen hot springs around Lake Shikotsu to warm up after enjoying the icy cold festival.
Guided tours of the area can be arranged upon request. With a personalised tour, you can learn more about the history of the ice festival as well as details about the work that goes into building these massive sculptures. Tours can be requested upon arrival at the venue. However, if you wish to do a tour with more than five people, you must reserve at least three days in advance. You can find more details here.
Festival tickets are available online via KKDay. You can also get a ticket and transport package (departing Sapporo) via our affiliated partner Klook.
Entry is ¥500 per person (free for junior high school students and younger). Held at Lake Shikotsu Onsen, the Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport or an hour drive from Sapporo. For more details on the festival, visit the website.
This article was published on December 14 2021 and updated on January 15 2024.
More from Time Out Tokyo
The official Japan cherry blossom forecast for 2024 is out now
Tickets to the new teamLab Borderless is now on sale
There's a frozen icicle forest just outside of Tokyo – and it's lit up at night
Survey: These are Japan’s most annoying train behaviours
Odaiba is getting a new immersive theme park in March 2024
Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.